Name: Ina Garten Sausage and Peppers Recipe
Prep time: 10 min
Cook time: 35 min
Total time: 45 min
Yield: 6
Cuisine: Italian-American
Ingredients: Italian sausage – 2 pounds (sweet or spicy, as preferred); Olive oil – 2 tablespoons; Red bell peppers – 2, sliced; Green bell peppers – 2, sliced; Yellow onion – 2 large, sliced; Garlic – 3 cloves, minced; Canned crushed tomatoes – 1 (28-ounce) can; Tomato paste – 2 tablespoons; Red wine vinegar – 2 tablespoons; Dried oregano – 1 teaspoon; Kosher salt – 1 teaspoon (or to taste); Black pepper – ½ teaspoon; Fresh basil – 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)

Ina Garten’s Sausage and Peppers is a classic Italian-American dish featuring savory sausages paired with colorful bell peppers and onions. Cooked in a flavorful tomato-based sauce, this hearty and satisfying recipe is perfect for family dinners or entertaining guests.

What is Ina Garten Sausage and Peppers?

Sausage and Peppers is a comforting dish made with pan-seared sausage, sautéed bell peppers, onions, and a rich tomato sauce. It’s a versatile recipe that can be served on its own, over pasta, or in sandwiches for a complete meal.

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Reasons to Try Ina Garten Sausage and Peppers

Quick and Easy: A simple one-pan recipe that’s ready in under an hour.
Bold Flavors: The combination of sausage, peppers, and spices creates a deliciously robust taste.
Customizable: Use sweet or spicy sausages to match your preferences.
Versatile Serving Options: Great as a main dish, pasta topper, or sandwich filling.

Ingredients Needed to Make Ina Garten Sausage and Peppers

Italian sausage – 2 pounds (sweet or spicy, as preferred)
Olive oil – 2 tablespoons
Red bell peppers – 2, sliced
Green bell peppers – 2, sliced
Yellow onion – 2 large, sliced
Garlic – 3 cloves, minced
Canned crushed tomatoes – 1 (28-ounce) can
Tomato paste – 2 tablespoons
Red wine vinegar – 2 tablespoons
Dried oregano – 1 teaspoon
Kosher salt – 1 teaspoon (or to taste)
Black pepper – ½ teaspoon
Fresh basil – 2 tablespoons, chopped (for garnish)

Instructions to Prepare Ina Garten Sausage and Peppers

Brown the Sausage

Heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil in a large skillet over medium heat.
Add the sausages and cook until browned on all sides, about 5-7 minutes. Remove and set aside.

Sauté the Vegetables

In the same skillet, add the remaining olive oil.
Add the sliced bell peppers and onions and sauté for 7-10 minutes, stirring occasionally, until softened.
Stir in the minced garlic and cook for 1 minute until fragrant.

Add the Tomato Sauce

Stir in the crushed tomatoes, tomato paste, red wine vinegar, dried oregano, salt, and black pepper.
Bring the sauce to a simmer and cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally.

Cook the Sausage and Peppers Together

Return the browned sausages to the skillet, nestling them into the sauce.
Cover the skillet and simmer for 20-25 minutes, until the sausages are cooked through and the flavors meld.

Garnish and Serve

Sprinkle the dish with fresh basil before serving. Serve warm on its own, over pasta, or in sandwich rolls.

What Goes Well With Ina Garten Sausage and Peppers?

Crusty Bread: Perfect for soaking up the sauce.
Pasta: Serve over spaghetti, penne, or rigatoni.
Mashed Potatoes: A comforting and hearty pairing.
Rice: A simple base to complement the rich flavors.
Salad: A fresh green salad balances the richness of the dish.

Key Tips for Making Ina Garten Sausage and Peppers

Use Quality Sausage: High-quality Italian sausage makes a big difference in flavor.
Don’t Overcrowd the Pan: Brown the sausages in batches if needed for even cooking.
Cook Vegetables Until Tender: Ensure the peppers and onions are soft to enhance their sweetness.
Customize Heat Levels: Use spicy sausages or add red pepper flakes for extra heat.
Make It Ahead: This dish reheats beautifully, making it ideal for meal prep or entertaining.

Creative Variations of Ina Garten Sausage and Peppers

Add Mushrooms: Sauté mushrooms with the peppers and onions for added flavor.
Spicy Version: Use hot Italian sausage or add a pinch of cayenne pepper.
Cheesy Option: Sprinkle mozzarella or Parmesan on top before serving.
Herb Swap: Use fresh parsley or thyme instead of basil for a different flavor.
Make It Low-Carb: Serve with zucchini noodles or cauliflower rice.

Storage Guidelines for Ina Garten Sausage and Peppers

Refrigerate leftovers: Store them in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
Reheat: Warm on the stovetop over low heat or in the microwave until heated through.
Freeze for Later: Cool completely, then freeze in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator before reheating.

Nutrition Value

Calories: ~350 per serving
Protein: 20g
Carbohydrates: 10g
Fats: 25g
Fiber: 3g

FAQs

Can Sausage and Peppers Be Made Ahead of Time?

Yes, sausage and peppers can be made ahead of time. Cook the dish completely, let it cool, and store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop before serving.

What Is the Best Sausage for Sausage and Peppers?

Italian sausage, either sweet or spicy, works best for sausage and peppers. Its seasoning complements the peppers and tomato sauce, creating a flavorful dish.

How Do You Prevent Sausages from Splitting While Cooking?

To prevent sausages from splitting, brown them over medium heat rather than high heat. Pricking them with a fork before cooking also helps release steam and keeps the casing intact.

Can Sausage and Peppers Be Frozen?

Yes, sausage and peppers freeze well. Allow the dish to cool completely, then store it in a freezer-safe container for up to 2 months. Thaw overnight in the refrigerator and reheat on the stovetop.

Wrapping Up

Ina Garten’s Sausage and Peppers is a delicious and versatile dish that’s perfect for any occasion. With its bold flavors and hearty ingredients, it’s sure to become a family favorite. Serve it with your favorite sides and enjoy a comforting, satisfying meal!

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